[realitychx2020]

>> This isn't to imply that engineers are universally treated well, but that RELATIVE to other workers, they held far more bargaining power and faced better working conditions across the board. Most companies outside of the tech bubble don't even have the concept of unlimited PTO.

One might also argue that US residents disagree with you so much that they arent applying to tech jobs in sufficient quanities. The pay and benefits are not worth it when compared to the instability, stress, "benefits", and chaos -- and instead we hire foreigners who are more desperate for the work, and thus willing to work for perks like "Unlimited PTO".

It isnt like there arent smart people in the US who can do these jobs, its more that the smart people go to jobs with real benefits and real perks -- cushy jobs on Wall St or senior management or government jobs where you dont have to do anything.

[compiler-guy]

They don't have the concept of unlimited PTO because it is a lie masquerading as an employee benefit entirely to serve the firm's accountants.

[ckmiaomix]

I'd actually really like to believe that what you've written is true. If hundreds and thousands of tech workers were empowered toliterally quit the workforce if their higher needs weren't met, I'd be DELIGHTED.

But the reality is that the jobs with "real perks" are really hard to get and few and far between. They require powerful networks, timing, and luck. Most of the folks I know who were impacted by the recent layoffs just want a place where they can make a good living and feel appreciated.